It is difficult to predict the actual cost of studying abroad as costs will vary by country. For example, the cost of living will be higher in Western Europe and Japan than in China. Also, different locations within a country may incur different expenses. Expect to spend more if you are living in a major urban centre than if you are living in a rural community.
Some programs will be more expensive than others, depending on added features, such as support services, tours, etc. Some institutions may charge higher fees for textbooks, accommodation, and meal plans. Any additional traveling you may wish to do will also increase your total costs.
In addition to asking the International Programs Assistant and past participants for information, you will need to conduct some research yourself. Be sure to look into student discounts and any special rates that may be available.
Based on your research, begin to estimate the costs associated with travelling and studying abroad. Use the budget worksheet found in the Study Abroad Handbook and the UFV application package to determine potential sources of income.
Sources of funding:
You will most likely need to do some fundraising and saving before your Study Abroad experience.
Here are some sources of funding you may find helpful:
Personal: job, parents, relatives, friends, bank, etc.
School: student associations, Alumni, Faculty Deans, on-campus student groups and clubs, etc.
Community: charitable clubs, local businesses, churches, banks, media (i.e. local media, or voluntary groups like the Rotary Foundation International).
Government organizations: your MP and MPP as well as other political parties, ministries, municipal government.
Businesses: local and national corporations that may do business with the country you are visiting or are part of your community (i.e. Chambers of Commerce).
